Step 1 - Personal Information and Demographics

This section includes the basics, such as your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and contact information.

Step 2 - College Information

You will need to enter the information for the colleges where you want your FAFSA information sent. You can always add or change them later, but try to have a few of your top choices selected.

Step 3 - Dependency

There are many criteria used to determine whether you might qualify as an independent student. To look at the guidelines in advance, visit the Office of Federal Student Aid.

Step 4 - Parental Information

If you are in fact a dependent student (which is likely the case), your parents will then enter their information, including their personal data and income. The IRS Data Retrieval Tool is a simple way to transfer income information for both your parents and yourself.

Step 5 - Your Financial Information

Next up is your own income. You’ll need information from your tax return in order to complete this section, but you may be able to transfer it using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool.

Step 6 - Sign and Submit

You will enter a few pieces of information in order to confirm your identity, and your parent will be asked to e-sign as well. You’re all done!

Step 7 - Confirmation - What is Next?

You will receive a copy of your FAFSA confirmation via email shortly after completing it. Within three to five days you should receive another email indicating your FAFSA has been processed. At that point your information is sent to the schools you selected, and it’s time to wait for your financial aid packages to be sent to you.

If you have questions about completing your FAFSA or about the financial aid process and paying for college, we can help! Our College Access Counselor in partnership with Student Choice is available for a free one-on-one consultation via phone or email. Request your appointment now!